The Transfer Tavern

The Aston Villa fans here in the Transfer Tavern are happy to finally have something to shout about. Indeed, the punters propping up our bar have been delighted with their recent run of form and some of the more optimistic drinkers amongst them are even discussing potential signings if they return to the Premier League.

Though promotion to the proverbial Promised Land is by no means guaranteed, the quality on offer at Villa Park and Steve Bruce’s track record in ensuring his teams get out of the second tier has our resident Villians feeling confident at long, long last.

With that in mind, there have been discussions amongst our punters clad in claret and blue in regards to potential summer arrivals. If Villa are back in the Premier League, they’re surely an attractive prospect for many players and, backed by Dr. Tony Xia, perhaps we could see some big names arrive.

Having said that, they could do a lot worse than moving for Joe Hart. The England international looks out of favour at West Ham United and is widely expected to leave parent club Manchester City at the end of the season after seeing his stock drop rapidly in the last two years.

However, the goalkeeping position has proven rather troublesome for Villa of late. Sam Johnstone is only on loan from Manchester United and Bruce’s options between the sticks could certainly do with strengthening going forward, especially if they return to the top tier.

To that end, Hart would be a big signing. The 30-year-old may have had his critics but is a vastly experienced custodian at Premier League level and would certainly be an upgrade on what Villa currently have. Furthermore, the £10.8m-rated ‘keeper has a point to prove to, so a move to Villa Park would be good for all parties.